text:
Is Alphabet's share price drop an opportunity?
05 Oct 2021, 10:15GMT
Alphabet's [GOOG] share price slipped over 4% last week ending on October 1, as the owner of Google challenged an EU fine over anti-monopolistic practices. While the legal wrangling is likely to have dragged on sentiment, the drop follows a broader downturn in the markets.
Since early September, Alphabet's share price, along with rivals Microsoft [MFST] and Apple [AAPL] have been on a downward trend, reflecting the broader tech-heavy Nasdaq.
That downturn in sentiment continued last week after the Fed signalled that tapering could be on the cards sooner, rather than later, with the Nasdaq slipping over 3.3% last week, along with falls from Microsoft and Apple.
We look at the investment case for Alphabet and its share price after a week that saw it defend its Android strategy, and CitiGroup warns over the search giant's ad revenue.
GOOGL Chart by TradingView
Alphabet's defends Android against $5bn fine
The antitrust body in the EU has fined Google's Android operating system for monopolistic practices. As part of its Mobile Application Distribution Agreements (MADAs), Google was asking phone makers (OEMs) to only install the Google Search app and Chrome browser app on handsets in exchange for a license waiver on the Google PlayStore, which hosts a bulk of mobile apps around the world.
The search major defended its position during the week-long hearing on the matter as it sought to annul the European Commission's hefty fine. It was not without putting pressure on Alphabet's share price.
"This licensing model is what attracted OEMs to the Android platform, and what enabled those OEMs to offer a consistent and high-quality user experience at the lowest possible price," Google's lawyer Alfonso Lamadrid told the General Court, adding, "People use Google because they choose to, not because they're forced to."
"This licensing model is what attracted OEMs to the Android platform, and what enabled those OEMs to offer a consistent and high-quality user experience at the lowest possible price. People use Google because they choose to, not because they're forced to" - Google's lawyer Alfonso Lamadrid
On Wednesday, Google, which is led by Sundar Pichai (pictured above), argued that the policy wasn't designed to prevent competition, but to seize market share from Apple. While on Thursday, Google's lawyers described the fine as 'staggering' and that Google couldn't have been aware that it was contravening EU law as there was no precedent for it.
European Commission lawyers argued that the deals in effect meant that "competitors would not achieve critical mass to challenge its dominance."
A decision is expected next year in what is part of a broader trend of regulators taking a tougher line on internet giants.
CitiGroup's warning on Alphabet
While Google's Android business comes under pressure in Europe, its advertising operations - which make up the bulk of revenue – is also getting called into question.
Google's parent Alphabet saw its longest monthly sequential growth in a decade, Bloomberg reported in August. Advertising revenue for the company has surged, translating into higher margins and returns than any of its peers.
However, CitiGroup analyst Jason Bazinet warned that Wall Street was 'just too bullish' on the strength of advertising revenue when it comes to internet stocks last week. The analyst warned investors to stay away from names like Alphabet and Facebook as estimates could be too high. Instead, investors should consider Amazon, which has been a relative underperformer in this area.
For Bazinet, the growth has more to do with second-quarter results seeing a bounce back from the same time last year, rather than businesses entering some kind of "new era of higher ad intensity for every dollar of economic activity."
"We think investors would be far better served to buy Amazon, -0.11% where we're just a few quarters away from locking those difficult comps, and the stock has sort of underperformed because of those difficult e-commerce comps" - CitiGroup analyst Jason Bazinet
"We think investors would be far better served to buy Amazon [AMZN], -0.11% where we're just a few quarters away from locking those difficult comps, and the stock has sort of underperformed because of those difficult e-commerce comps," says the analyst.
The panel on the September 30 edition of CNBC's Fast Money seemed unconvinced. Host Melissa Lee notes that what makes the Citi call interesting is that it suggests moving towards what are considered value plays in the space, towards stocks with a higher valuation. Pundit Guy Adami was more direct, saying "you flee from Google at your own peril. I understand that the stock has sold off recently, but in terms of a business model, it's hard to argue against it."
Earlier in September, Jefferies issued a similar sentiment, reiterating its 'hold' rating on the stock, but upping its price target to $3,325 from $3,150 - a 22% upside on Friday's close. Among the analysts tracking Alphabet's share price on Yahoo Finance, the stock carries a $3,106.11 price target - hitting this would see a 13% upside on Friday's close.
Will Q3 ad spend hamper the Facebook share price?
Businesses are back to spending money on online advertising which should be good news for Facebook's upcoming earnings.
Is the UiPath share price on a growth journey?
clean-energy
Private equity players are teaming up to write reporting standard for ESG
OPTO Sessions
Jaime Rogozinski on the GameStop short squeeze, DeFi, and NFTs
UiPath is beefing up its business, and the eventual adoption of robots may pave the way for a long term uptick in the company's share price.
Coinbase or Robinhood share prices: which neo-broker to back?
Both online brokers have grown profits from the cryptocurrency market, but with the Robinhood and Coinbase share prices diverging, which is the better bet?
Will Netflix's share price really hit Credit Suisse's $740 target?
After Squid Games' monster success, analysts think content really is king for the streaming service.


text:
Q: How to plot candlestick skipping empty dates using matplotlib? I'm still a newbie to matplotlib. Currently, I have below dataset for plotting:

                  Date   Open   High    Low  Close
  Trade_Date
  2018-01-02  736696.0  42.45  42.45  41.45  41.45
  2018-01-03  736697.0  41.60  41.70  40.70  40.95
  2018-01-04  736698.0  40.90  41.05  40.20  40.25
  2018-01-05  736699.0  40.35  41.60  40.35  41.50
  2018-01-08  736702.0  40.20  40.20  37.95  38.00
  2018-01-09  736703.0  37.15  39.00  37.15  38.00
  2018-01-10  736704.0  38.70  38.70  37.15  37.25
  2018-01-11  736705.0  37.50  37.50  36.55  36.70
  2018-01-12  736706.0  37.00  37.40  36.90  37.20
  2018-01-15  736709.0  37.50  37.70  37.15  37.70
  2018-01-16  736710.0  37.80  38.25  37.45  37.95
  2018-01-17  736711.0  38.00  38.05  37.65  37.75
  2018-01-18  736712.0  38.00  38.20  37.70  37.75
  2018-01-19  736713.0  36.70  37.10  35.30  36.45
  2018-01-22  736716.0  36.25  36.25  35.50  36.10
  2018-01-23  736717.0  36.20  36.30  35.65  36.00
  2018-01-24  736718.0  35.80  36.00  35.60  36.00
  2018-01-25  736719.0  36.10  36.10  35.45  35.45
  2018-01-26  736720.0  35.50  35.75  35.00  35.00
  2018-01-29  736723.0  34.80  35.00  33.65  33.70
  2018-01-30  736724.0  33.70  34.45  33.65  33.90

I've converted the date value to number using mdates.date2num
After that, I've tried to plot candlestick graph with codes below:
    f1, ax = plt.subplots(figsize= (10,5))

   candlestick_ohlc(ax, ohlc.values, width=.6, colorup='red', colordown='green')
    ax.xaxis.set_major_formatter(mdates.DateFormatter('%Y-%m-%d'))
    plt.show()

However, I'm still getting the graph with gaps.
I've tried the possible solution from How do I plot only weekdays using Python's matplotlib candlestick?

However, I was not able to solve my problem with the solution above.
Can anyone kindly help me with this issue?
Thanks!

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Discussion in 'Konoha TV' started by Uchiha Q, Jun 6, 2007.
Well ive stopped watching naruto (the normal one) after 176 becouse they didint continue the main storyline , anyway , any eps after 176 that are essential for me to watch befour continueing with shipuuden , or all are normal fillers ?
and if there are please , list them or atleast describe some of them so i can post in the ( what episode ) thread.
except the last one, 220, which has the departure of Naruto, they all are fillers not necessary to understand the plot.
Fillers are single stories or arcs that have almost no fights.
If you have a fav character who's not Sasuke, Orochimaru or Kabuto, you can read the summaries and choose accordingly. I went that way, lucky me, and I got nice filler (animators love my fav characters anyway) to entertain me.
Outside of the last episode they continue basic filler. So unless you've seen every anime out there or are a perfectionist who insists on watching everything Naruto... skip em.
its only the 2nd half of episode 220 which is the main storyline. The first half is the end of the last filler arc, which is quite good. starts from episode 216 i think. you should watch it.
If by that you mean a single cross-eyed Naruto cell, with a wonky headband and fist the size of his hand gliding across the screen towards a villain uglier than sin, then yes, the fights are amazing.
Seriously, save yourself, and your brain cell count, and skip those fillers.


text:
Tally the results of a small football competition.

Based on an input file containing which team played against which and what the
outcome was, create a file with a table like this:

```text
Team                           | MP |  W |  D |  L |  P
Devastating Donkeys            |  3 |  2 |  1 |  0 |  7
Allegoric Alaskans             |  3 |  2 |  0 |  1 |  6
Blithering Badgers             |  3 |  1 |  0 |  2 |  3
Courageous Californians        |  3 |  0 |  1 |  2 |  1
```

What do those abbreviations mean?

- MP: Matches Played
- W: Matches Won
- D: Matches Drawn (Tied)
- L: Matches Lost
- P: Points

A win earns a team 3 points. A draw earns 1. A loss earns 0.

The outcome should be ordered by points, descending. In case of a tie, teams are ordered alphabetically.

###

Input

Your tallying program will receive input that looks like:

```text
Allegoric Alaskans;Blithering Badgers;win
Devastating Donkeys;Courageous Californians;draw
Devastating Donkeys;Allegoric Alaskans;win
Courageous Californians;Blithering Badgers;loss
Blithering Badgers;Devastating Donkeys;loss
Allegoric Alaskans;Courageous Californians;win
```

The result of the match refers to the first team listed. So this line

```text
Allegoric Alaskans;Blithering Badgers;win
```

Means that the Allegoric Alaskans beat the Blithering Badgers.

This line:

```text
Courageous Californians;Blithering Badgers;loss
```

Means that the Blithering Badgers beat the Courageous Californians.

And this line:

```text
Devastating Donkeys;Courageous Californians;draw
```

Means that the Devastating Donkeys and Courageous Californians tied.

## Setup

Go through the project setup instructions for Xcode using Swift:

http://exercism.io/languages/swift
http://exercism.io/languages/swift/tests

Notably from the source directory:

`swift test` runs tests
`swift package generate-xcodeproj` creates an Xcode project

## Submitting Incomplete Solutions
It's possible to submit an incomplete solution so you can see how others have completed the exercise.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


...the GuyDad is at home now. He is recovering, though he's still on drugs. But there seems to be nothing major wrong, the operation went well, and we are thankful. The GuyMom is expected to come over this weekend so that she sees him first-hand and stops worrying, and he gets some company other than a daughter-in-law who spends most of her waking hours at the desk with the laptop and the rest with her nose in a book.
Glad he is back home.
Hope you have a great time in Delhi.
I'm glad he's fine...Have fun in Delhi and enjoy the cold weather!
Pallavi: I hope we do, too!
ramblingsbybones: You know, I'm looking forward to it and dreading it at the same time. I've spent the last three winters in warm-ish Pune: can I stand the Delhi winter now? At least we're not going in the coldest days.
Gayatri: Sure! But the last time I went to Chennai was five years ago, so don't get your hopes up.
simplypallu: That has to be the best looks-related compliment I've ever received! I'm grinning like a maniac now. However, I'm fatter than when you saw me.
"However, I'm fatter than when you saw me."
Same here. Just add a few more pimples and tanning. Sigh!
simplypallu: My hair's quite short now. It feels great, but I look even fatter. I reason, I don't get to look at myself much: how I feel is more important.
How long are you in Delhi? Would love to meet if possible!
Aishwarya: Yes! I'm there only for a few days, but that includes next weekend... Will you email me? unmanaswords at gmail.
I wish you were coming to Kolkata!


text:
Obituary: Shirley Frank
Obituaries Obituaries | May 20, 2021
Shirley Frank
Provided Photo
February 18, 1954 – May 11, 2021
Shirley (Hutchinson) Frank passed away on May 11, 2021 at the age of 67 due to long term difficulties following her battle with cancer.
Shirley is survived by her caring husband, John Frank of Carbondale, daughter Katie Frank of Glenwood Springs, son Adam Frank of Steamboat Springs, aunt Joan Darnell of Battlement Mesa, sister Debbie Craven of San Luis Obispo, CA, brother David Hutchinson of Cortez, CO, 4 nieces and 1 nephew.
Shirley had a fight for life like no other. Born and graduated high school in Cortez, Colorado, Shirley earned a Bachelor of Teaching degree from Fort Lewis College and later a Master's of Education Degree from Adams State University. She was a dedicated teacher at Basalt Elementary school for 25 years before retiring in 2010. Recently Shirley loved playing with a ukulele group, and ran a small boutique sewing business. She enjoyed giving back to the community through activities such as a youth sewing club, and sharing time in schools and nursing homes with her pomeranian therapy dog named Gucci. She has made many memories boating, skiing, biking, hiking with friends and family here in the mountains of the Roaring Fork Valley and deserts of Utah and Arizona for over 40 years.
A memorial service is scheduled on Sunday, May 23 to remember Shirley's zest for life and inspiration she left behind. It will take place at Gianinetti Park in Carbondale at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Valley View Foundation campaign to support Valley View nurses.
Obituary: Robbie Ray Adams
Obituary: Timothy Schif
Obituary: Frances J. Pfalzgraff
Obituary: Nancy Hilty
Obituary: Glennyce DeRoeck

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Copyright © 2015. Pousada Solar de Loronha Reservas: 55 81 3031.3416 | 55 81 99634.7530 | reservas@pousadasolardeloronha.com.br.


Our client, midsize law practice in Garden City, Long Island, is searching for a legal secretary (with trust estates experience) to work a long term contract position.
If you are interested, please send your most updated resume in Microsoft Word format to [email protected]!
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text:
Archives of Acoustics is an English-language peer-reviewed quarterly journal publishing original research papers from all areas of acoustics and abstracts from some specialised acoustical conferences. It gives free internet access to its full content (abstracts of research papers) to current issues.
Archives of Acoustics, the peer-reviewed quarterly journal publishes original research papers from all areas of acoustics like:
acoustical measurements and instrumentation,
acoustics of musics,
acousto-optics,
architectural, building and environmental acoustics,
bioacoustics,
electroacoustics,
linear and nonlinear acoustics,
noise and vibration,
physical and chemical effects of sound,
physiological acoustics,
psychoacoustics,
quantum acoustics,
speech processing and communication systems,
speech production and perception,
transducers,
ultrasonics,
underwater acoustics.
Earlier issues are available on the old website http://acoustics.ippt.gov.pl/index.php/aa/issue/archive
ISSN 0137-5075, eISSN 2300-262X
Committee on Acoustics PAS, PAS Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Acoustical Society
Archives of Acoustics | 2016 | vol. 41 | No 3 |
1 Sonification: Review of Auditory Display Solutions in Electronic Travel Aids for the Blind
Michał Bujacz, Paweł Strumiłło
Archives of Acoustics | 2016 | vol. 41 | No 3 | 401-414 | DOI: 10.1515/aoa-2016-0040
Keywords: Sonification auditory display electronic travel aids visual impairment blindness assistive technologies
Sonification is defined as presentation of information by means of non-speech audio. In assistive technologies for the blind, sonification is most often used in electronic travel aids (ETAs) - devices which aid in independent mobility through obstacle detection or help in orientation and navigation. The presented review contains an authored classification of various sonification schemes implemented in the most widely known ETAs. The review covers both those commercially available and those in various stages of research, according to the input used, level of signal processing algorithm used and sonification methods. Additionally, a sonification approach developed in the Naviton project is presented. The prototype utilizes stereovision scene reconstruction, obstacle and surface segmentation and spatial HRTF filtered audio with discrete musical sounds and was successfully tested in a pilot study with blind volunteers in a controlled environment, allowing to localize and navigate around obstacles.
Michał Bujacz
Paweł Strumiłło
2 Analysis of Social Conflicts in Poland's Soundscape as a Challenge to Socio-Acoustics
Sebastian Bernat
Keywords: noise soundscape perception social conflict Poland
The study objective was to understand the character and location of social conflicts in Poland's soundscape. The analyses were based on a review of press and Internet articles from the years 2008-2015 and reports on noise, preceded by a review of the legal framework of protection against noise in Poland. Questionnaire surveys concerning Poland's national parks and health resorts and the city of Lublin were an additional source of information. In the case of the former, the surveys were supplemented with a general examination of the acoustic determinants of social conflicts in the Podzamcze district.
An analysis shows that sound in landscape has been a source of more than 100 social conflicts which were most frequently related to unpleasant sounds (noise nuisance) and the right to peace and quiet. The public demands acoustic comfort, one of the determinants of the quality of life. Therefore, it is necessary to know the public opinion on soundscapes (survey of sound preferences). Public consultations concerning the assessment of acoustic disturbance and sound preferences will make it possible to avoid social conflicts arising from insufficient knowledge. A major role is also played by the education of the public and decision-makers through sound awareness campaigns, e.g. as p art of ecology education. The subjective assessment of noise nuisance severity and the acoustic design of public spaces should be an integral part of environmental noise control programmes and revitalisation programmes.
The conducted studies demonstrated that understanding the character and location of social conflicts in soundscape is a major scientific problem. Its resolution requires combining sociological studies (questionnaire for the valuation of the subjective feelings of respondents) with field analyses (observations, acoustic measurements). It is a promising research field that has been developed to a limited extent so far.
3 Hybridisation of Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficient and Higher Order Spectral Features for Musical Instruments Classification
Daulappa Guranna Bhalke, C. B. Rama Rao, Dattatraya Bormane
Keywords: feature extraction MFCC HOS bispectrum bicoherence non-linearity non-Gaussianity CPNN Zero Crossing Rate (ZCR)
This paper presents the classification of musical instruments using Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC) and Higher Order Spectral features. MFCC, cepstral, temporal, spectral, and timbral features have been widely used in the task of musical instrument classification. As music sound signal is generated using non-linear dynamics, non-linearity and non-Gaussianity of the musical instruments are important features which have not been considered in the past. In this paper, hybridisation of MFCC and Higher Order Spectral (HOS) based features have been used in the task of musical instrument classification. HOS-based features have been used to provide instrument specific information such as non-Gaussianity and non-linearity of the musical instruments. The extracted features have been presented to Counter Propagation Neural Network (CPNN) to identify the instruments and their family. For experimentation, isolated sounds of 19 musical instruments have been used from McGill University Master Sample (MUMS) sound database. The proposed features show the significant improvement in the classification accuracy of the system.
Daulappa Guranna Bhalke
C. B. Rama Rao
Dattatraya Bormane
4 Subjective Evaluation of Three Headphone-Based Virtual Sound Source Positioning Methods Including Differential Head-Related Transfer Function
Dominik Storek, Frantisek Rund, Petr Marsalek
Keywords: virtual positioning virtual reality positioning method positioning algorithm head-related transfer function amplitude panning
This paper analyses the performance of Differential Head-Related Transfer Function (DHRTF), an alternative transfer function for headphone-based virtual sound source positioning within a horizontal plane. This experimental one-channel function is used to reduce processing and avoid timbre affection while preserving signal features important for sound localisation. The use of positioning algorithm employing the DHRTF is compared to two other common positioning methods: amplitude panning and HRTF processing. Results of theoretical comparison and quality assessment of the methods by subjective listening tests are presented. The tests focus on distinctive aspects of the positioning methods: spatial impression, timbre affection, and loudness fluctuations. The results show that the DHRTF positioning method is applicable with very promising performance; it avoids perceptible channel coloration that occurs within the HRTF method, and it delivers spatial impression more successfully than the simple amplitude panning method.
Dominik Storek
Frantisek Rund
Petr Marsalek
5 Decision Support System for Identifying Technical Condition of Combustion Engine
Adam Deptuła, Piotr Osiński, Urszula Radziwanowska
Keywords: game graphs acoustic diagnostics combustion engine
The paper is a continuation of the publication under the title "Acoustic diagnostics applications in the study of technical condition of combustion engine" and concerns the detailed description of decision support system for identifying technical condition (type of failure) of specified combustion engine. The input data were measured sound pressure levels of specific faults in comparison to the noise generated by undamaged motor. In the article, the whole procedure of decision method based on game graphs is described, as well as the interface of the program for direct usage.
Adam Deptuła
Piotr Osiński
Urszula Radziwanowska
6 Acoustic Scattering of 3D Complex Systems Having Random Rough Surfaces by Scalar Integral Equations
Juan Antonio Guel-Tapia, Francisco Villa-Villa, Alberto Mendoza-Suarez, Hector Pérez-Aguilar
Keywords: integral equations Helmholtz equation acoustic scattering
We propose a numerical surface integral method to study complex acoustic systems, for interior and exterior problems. The method is based on a parametric representation in terms of the arc's lengths in curvilinear orthogonal coordinates. With this method, any geometry that involves quadric or higher order surfaces, irregular objects or even randomly rough surfaces can be considered. In order to validate the method, the modes in cubic, spherical and cylindrical cavities are calculated and compared to analytical results, which produced very good agreement. In addition, as examples, we calculated the scattering in the far field and the near field by an acoustic sphere and a cylindrical structure with a rough cross-section.
Juan Antonio Guel-Tapia
Francisco Villa-Villa
Alberto Mendoza-Suarez
Hector Pérez-Aguilar
7 Modeling and Designing Acoustical Conditions of the Interior - Case Study
Bożena Kostek, Sebastian Laskowski, Karolina Mizgier
Keywords: acoustic field analysis and modeling acoustic conditions measurements and analysis sound reinforcement system design
The primary aim of this research study was to model acoustic conditions of the Courtyard of the Gdańsk University of Technology Main Building, and then to design a sound reinforcement system for this interior. First, results of measurements of the parameters of the acoustic field are presented. Then, the comparison between measured and predicted values using the ODEON program is shown. Collected data indicate a long reverberation time which results in poor speech intelligibility. Then, a thorough analysis is perform to improve the acoustic properties of the model of the interior investigated. On the basis of the improved acoustic model two options of a sound reinforcement system for this interior are proposed, and then analyzed. After applying sound absorbing material it was noted that the predicted speech intelligibility increased from bad/poor rating to good category.
Bożena Kostek
Sebastian Laskowski
Karolina Mizgier
8 Calculation Models for Acoustic Analysis of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Jaworzno Szczakowa
Krzysztof Kosała
Keywords: acoustic quality index method church acoustics Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) acoustic simulation tests
In parallel with research conducted using conventional methods, a uniform index method for assessing the acoustic quality of Roman Catholic churches has been developed. The latest version of the index method has been created using the index observation matrix of 12 churches which have been rated by means of the single number global index.
Assessments of the acoustic quality of any Roman Catholic church, using two calculation models: the Global Acoustic Properties Index (GAP) and the Global Index (GI), are shown in the article. The verification was performed on the example of one church, showing the way of calculating global indices to assess the acoustic quality of a new facility. The next stages in the development of the index method for assessing the acoustic quality of churches were taking into account the audience, using simulation tests and determining the spatial distribution of the single number GAP index in an examined church. An attempt to use the GAP and GI calculation models to assess the acoustic properties of some churches is also shown in the article.
9 Feedforward Control of a Light-Weight Device Casing for Active Noise Reduction
Stanisław Wrona, Marek Pawelczyk
Keywords: active control flexible structures active noise control active vibration control active structural acoustic control active casing
It is possible to enhance acoustic isolation of the device from the environment by appropriately controlling vibration of a device casing. Sound insulation efficiency of this technique for a rigid casing was confirmed by the authors in previous publications. In this paper, a light-weight casing is investigated, where vibrational couplings between walls are much greater due to lack of a rigid frame. A laboratory setup is described in details. The influence of the cross-paths on successful global noise reduction is considered. Multiple vibration actuators are installed on each of the casing walls. An adaptive control strategy based on the Least Mean Square (LMS) algorithm is used to update control filter parameters. Obtained results are reported, discussed, and conclusions for future research are drawn.
Stanisław Wrona
Marek Pawelczyk
10 Diagnostics of Rotor Damages of Three-Phase Induction Motors Using Acoustic Signals and SMOFS-20-EXPANDED
Adam Glowacz
Keywords: induction motor machine acoustic signal acoustic emission fault diagnostics
A fault diagnostics system of three-phase induction motors was implemented. The implemented system was based on acoustic signals of three-phase induction motors. A feature extraction step was performed using SMOFS-20-EXPANDED (shortened method of frequencies selection-20-Expanded). A classification step was performed using 3 classifiers: LDA (Linear Discriminant Analysis), NBC (Naive Bayes Classifier), CT (Classification Tree). An analysis was carried out for incipient states of three-phase induction motors measured under laboratory conditions. The author measured and analysed the following states of motors: healthy motor, motor with one faulty rotor bar, motor with two faulty rotor bars, motor with faulty ring of squirrel-cage. Measured and analysed states were caused by natural degradation of parts of the machine. The efficiency of recognition of the analysed states was good. The proposed method of fault diagnostics can find application in protection of three-phase induction motors.
11 Confidence Intervals for the Long-Term Noise Indicators Using the Kernel Density Estimator
Bartłomiej Stępień
Keywords: long-term noise indicators non-classical statistics interval estimation kernel density estimator
A non-classical model of interval estimation based on the kernel density estimator is presented in this paper. This model has been compared with interval estimation algorithms of the classical (parametric) statistics assuming that the standard deviation of the population is either known or unknown. The non-classical model does not have to assume belonging of random sample to a normal distribution. A theoretical basis of the proposed model is presented as well as an example of calculation process which makes possible determining confidence intervals of the expected value of long-term noise indicators Aden and LN. The statistical analysis was carried out for 95% interval widths obtained by using each of these models. The inference of their usefulness was performed on the basis of results of non-parametric statistical tests at significance level α = 0.05. The data used to illustrate the proposed solutions and carry out the analysis were results of continuous monitoring of traffic noise recorded in 2004 in one of the main arteries of Krakow in Poland.
12 Numerical Study of Forced Vibration Suppression by Parametric Anti-Resonance
Ludĕk Pešek, Petr Šulc, Ladislav Půst
Keywords: active damping parametric anti-resonance external harmonic excitation
The parametric anti-resonance phenomenon as an active damping tool for suppression of externally excited resonant vibration is numerically studied herein. It is well known fact that the anti-resonance phenomenon, i.e. the stiffness periodic variation by subtractive, combination resonance frequency, brings stabilization and cancelling into self-excited vibrations. But this paper aims at a new possibility of its application, namely a damping of externally excited resonant vibration. For estimation of its effect we come both from a characteristic exponent of the analytical solution and numerical solution of forced vibration of 2DOF linear system with additional parametric excitation. The amplitude suppression owing to the parametric anti-resonance is studied on several parameters of the system: a depth of parametric excitation, mass ratio, damping coefficient and small frequency deviations from the parametric anti-resonance.
Ludĕk Pešek
Petr Šulc
Ladislav Půst
13 The Risks of Social Noise Exposure in the Vulnerable Population in Slovakia
Lubica Argalasova, Alexandra Filova, Katarina Hirosova, Diana Vondrova, Martin Samohyl, Daniela Krajcova, Jana Jurkovicova, Ludmila Sevcikova
Keywords: social noise exposure road traffic noise personal music players university students
The study is aimed to quantify the effects of social noise exposure (personal music players (PMP), events with high noise exposure) and the exposure to the other environmental noise sources in the selected sample of Slovak university students. The validated ICBEN methodology was used to assess noise annoyance. The measurement of ambient noise levels was done using hand-held sound level analyzer. There were 526 university students (143 males and 383 females, average age 23±2.2) enrolled into the study so far, 192 in the exposed housing facility to road traffic noise and 326 in the control housing facility in Bratislava. The social noise exposure was quantified and followed according to the authorized methodology of the study Ohrkan. From the total sample 416 (79.4%) students reported the use of PMP in the last week for the average time of 314 minutes. There was a significant difference in PMP use between the exposed (85.34%) and the control group (76.31%) (p = 0.01). Among PMP users 28.1% exceeded the LAV (lower action value for industry = 80 dB). The results showed the importance of road traffic and the social noise as well and the need for prevention and intervention in these vulnerable groups.
Lubica Argalasova
Alexandra Filova
Katarina Hirosova
Diana Vondrova
Martin Samohyl
Daniela Krajcova
Jana Jurkovicova
Ludmila Sevcikova
14 Mathematical Modelling of Sound Radiation from a T Junction of City Roads in Windy Conditions
Olexa Piddubniak, Nadia Piddubniak
Keywords: T junction of city roads traffic noise propagation stationary phase method acoustic pressure power flow density
The sound radiation from vehicles travelling on the city roads with T junction was considered. The wind effect on acoustic field was taken into account. The solution of this problem was found with the help of the integral Fourier transforms and stationary phase method as the superposition of solutions for the cases of vehicles moving along the straight roads and roads with right-angle bend. As an example, the numerical analysis of traffic noise characteristics was carried out for the T junction city road on one of streets in the town of Łodź (Poland).
Olexa Piddubniak
Nadia Piddubniak
15 Local Fault Assessment in a Helical Geared System via Sound and Vibration Parameters Using Multiclass SVM Classifiers
Muniyappa Amarnath
Keywords: gear ANN SVM vibration sound
A gear system transmits power by means of meshing gear teeth and is conceptually simple and effective in power transmission. Thus typical applications include electric utilities, ships, helicopters, and many other industrial applications. Monitoring the condition of large gearboxes in industries has attracted increasing interest in the recent years owing to the need for decreasing the downtime on production machinery and for reducing the extent of secondary damage caused by failures. This paper addresses the development of a condition monitoring procedure for a gear transmission system using artificial neural networks (ANNs) and support vector machines (SVMs). Seven conditions of the gear were investigated: healthy gear and gear with six stages of depthwise wear simulated on the gear tooth. The features extracted from the measured vibration and sound signals were mean, root mean square (rms), variance, skewness, and kurtosis, which are known to be sensitive to different degrees of faults in rotating machine elements. These characteristics were used as an input features to ANN and SVM. The results show that the multilayer feed forward neural network and multiclass support vector machines can be effectively used in the diagnosis of various gear faults.
16 The New Methodology for Assessing of the Applicability of Elastomeric Materials in the Vibration Isolation Systems of Railway Lines
Jarosław Bednarz
Keywords: vibration isolation systems elastomeric materials properties of flexible materials
The technical requirements for the determination of physical parameters of vibration isolating material have not been standardized in Europe and Poland yet, which significantly hinders the ability to compare vibration isolating materials offered on the market. Therefore, there is a need for establishing a norm that could be applied both for the determination of the physico-mechanical properties of elastic vibration isolation elements in rail transport for domestic and foreign producers as well as in their selection for application in a specific vibration isolation system. The paper presents a proposal to standardize the methodology of the estimation of vibration isolation materials physical parameters authorized for use in vibration isolation systems used in rail transport. Methodology for measuring the physico-mechanical parameters of vibration isolating material presented in the paper forms uniform test procedure developed based on a fragmentary norms for flexible materials testing. The use of the proposed research methodology enables the creation of a unified database of elastic materials which parameters will be easy to compare, and choice between them will become easier for designers of vibration isolation systems used in rail transport.
17 Wavelet Packet Transform based Speech Enhancement via Two-Dimensional SPP Estimator with Generalized Gamma Priors
Pengfei Sun, Jun Qin
Keywords: speech enhancement speech presence probability wavelet packet transform two-dimensional Teager energy operator
Despite various speech enhancement techniques have been developed for different applications, existing methods are limited in noisy environments with high ambient noise levels. Speech presence probability (SPP) estimation is a speech enhancement technique to reduce speech distortions, especially in low signalto-noise ratios (SNRs) scenario. In this paper, we propose a new two-dimensional (2D) Teager-energyoperators (TEOs) improved SPP estimator for speech enhancement in time-frequency (T-F) domain. Wavelet packet transform (WPT) as a multiband decomposition technique is used to concentrate the energy distribution of speech components. A minimum mean-square error (MMSE) estimator is obtained based on the generalized gamma distribution speech model in WPT domain. In addition, the speech samples corrupted by environment and occupational noises (i.e., machine shop, factory and station) at different input SNRs are used to validate the proposed algorithm. Results suggest that the proposed method achieves a significant enhancement on perceptual quality, compared with four conventional speech enhancement algorithms (i.e., MMSE-84, MMSE-04, Wiener-96, and BTW).
Pengfei Sun
Jun Qin
18 Measurement Precision Under Repeatability Conditions of a Batch of Sound Power Assessment for Blenders in Reverberation Room
Rodrigo P.B. Costa-Felix
Keywords: metrology measurement precision sound power assessment reverberation room
A set of sound power assessments was performed to determine measurement precision in specified conditions by the comparison method in a reverberation room with a fixed position array of six microphones. Six blenders (or mixers) and, complementary, a reference sound source were the noise sources. Five or six sound power calculations were undertaken on each noise source, and the standard deviation (sr) was computed as "measurement precision under repeatability conditions" for each octave band from 125 Hz to 8 kHz, and in dB(A). With the results obtained, values of sr equal 1.0 dB for 125 Hz and 250 Hz, 0.8 dB for 500 Hz to 2 kHz, and 0.5 dB for 4 kHz and 8 kHz. Those can be considered representative as sound power precision for blenders according to the measurement method used. The standard deviation of repeatability for the A-weighted sound power level equals 0.6 dB. This paper could be used for house or laboratory tests to check where their uncertainty assessment for sound power determination is similar or not to those generated at the National Metrology Institute.
19 Research and Modeling of Mechanical Crosstalk in Linear Arrays of Ultrasonic Transducers
Mateusz Celmer, Krzysztof J. Opieliński
Keywords: mechanical crosstalk ultrasonic transducer array FEM modeling COMSOL Multiphysics
Linear arrays of ultrasonic transducers are commonly used as ultrasonic probes in medical diagnostics for imaging the interior of a human body in vivo. The crosstalk phenomenon occurs during the operation of transducers in which electrical voltages and mechanical vibrations are transmitted to adjacent components. As a result of such additional excitation of the transducers in the array, the directivity characteristics of the aperture used changes, and consequently there is interference with properoperation of a given array and the emergence of distortions in the obtained ultra sound image that reduce its quality. This paper studies the manner of propagation of mechanical crosstalk in the designed model of a linear array of ultrasonic transducers on the basis of unwanted signals, which appeared on elementary piezo-electric transducers when power is supplied to the selected transducer in the array. The universal model of linear array of ultrasonic transducers, which has been developed, allowed the simulation of mechanical crosstalk, taking in to account the cross-coupling phenomenon in all of its structure with the use of finite elements method (FEM) implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics software. The analysis of crosstalk signals showed that they consist of aggregated pulses propagating with different speeds and frequencies. This signifies the formation of different vibration modes transmitted simultaneously via different paths. The paper is an original approach which enables to identify different vibration modes and estimate their participation in the crosstalk signal and their ways of propagation. Conclusions from the research allow predicting specific design changes which are significant due to the minimization of mechanical crosstalk in linear arrays of ultrasonic transducers.
Mateusz Celmer
Krzysztof J. Opieliński
20 LXIII Open Seminar on Acoustics OSA 2016 Warszawa - Białowieża, 13th-16th September 2016
Andrzej Nowicki (Institute of Fundamental Technological Research PAN, Warszawa)
Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Barbara Gambin (Institute of Fundamental Technological Research PAN, Warszawa)
Genaral linear acoustics and physical acoustics
• Wojciech P. Rdzanek (University of Rzeszów, Rzeszów)
• Anna Snakowska (AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków)
Architectural acoustics
• Tadeusz Kamisiński (AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków)
Musical acoustics and psychological acoustics
• Andrzej Miśkiewicz (The Fryderyk Chopin University of Music, Warszawa)
• Anna Preis (Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań)
Underwater acoustics and nonlinear acoustics
• Grażyna Grelowska (Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk)
Speech, Computational acoustics and signal processing
• Ryszard Gubrynowicz (Polish-Japanese Institute of Information Technology, Warszawa)
Ultrasonics, transducers and instrumentation
• Krzysztof Opieliński (Wrocław University of Technology, Wrocław)
Electroacoustics
• Jan Żera (Warsaw University of Technology, Warszawa)
Noise control and environmental acoustics
• Jan Adamczyk (AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków)
• Mirosław Meissner (Institute of Fundamental Technological Research PAN, Warszawa)
• Janusz Kompała (Central Mining Institute, Katowice)
• Izabela Ewa Mika
Institute of Fundamental Technological Research
5b Pawińskiego Str.,
Phone: (48) (22) 826 12 81 ext. 206
Fax: (48) (22) 826 98 15
Email: akustyka@ippt.gov.pl
Paweł Witkowski
Email: intools@intools.pl
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text:
Woman, 28, quit the jetsetting world of private banking to launch a VERY flirty lingerie brand that combines sexiness with comfort - and now she's on course to make £1.1M by the end of this year
London-based Galyna Nitsetska, 28, founded Empress Mimi in 2015
Loved job which allowed her to travel Europe and Middle East by private jet
She wanted to build her own successful business and founded lingerie brand
Subscription boxes start at £14.95 a month and contain wire-free bras
A woman who gave up her high-flying career in private banking to launch a lingerie brand is now on course to make £1.1M by the end of the year.
London-based Galyna Nitsetska, 28, founded Empress Mimi - a range of lingerie subscription boxes featuring completely wire-free bras, as she wanted to create affordable and beautiful underwear, that's comfortable and practical while remaining fun and sexy.
Working in private banking afforded her the opportunity to travel between London, Monaco, Switzerland, Moscow and the Middle East in her early 20s, but while she loved the job it made her realise that she wanted something more.
'At some point you do wonder why you can't dedicate the time, energy and knowledge you are giving to someone else, to build something you actually believe in,' she told Femail.
'When my mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer, it was probably the last push I needed to leave. These situations have a way of forcing you re-evaluate your life and priorities.'
London-based Galyna Nitsetska, 28, quit her high flying job in private banking to launch a range of lingerie subscription boxes, Empress Mimi, and now her brand is on course to make £1.1M by the end of the year
Galyn (centre) with Empress Mimi models wearing the Queen of Hearts lingerie set. All bras are wire-free while briefs are adjustable so they can be altered for the most comfortable fit
Galyna was born in the Ukraine and moved to the UK via the Netherlands and Spain, where she studied Politics, Economics and Russian at UCL before becoming a private banker.
'I've always been the only female in every team I have worked in, so whenever I got the chance to work with clients who were successful businesswomen it would be an eye opening experience showing me what is possible,' she recalled.
'It helped me decide that if I ever wanted to run a company on my own, it would be a female-focused one.
'I don't know many people my age who have had the opportunity to travel in private jets and meet some of the most successful people in the world to the extent that I have.
The entrepreneur decided to make her brand a subscription box sex so that women could have the experience of sending themselves a treat every month, and men who want to give gift of lingerie don't have to face the awkward process of shopping by themselves
'But being surrounded by so many people who had built successful businesses on their own, whilst also being asked to dedicate all my time to supporting their dreams and goals, definitely led to frustration with the job.'
Galyna was inspired by the idea of creating a lingerie brand, both to make the experience more pleasant for women and create a more affordable product.
'Being always pushed for time, shopping for lingerie was not an experience I enjoyed, although having nice lingerie was something I loved very much,' she explained.
'Being semi-naked in a fluorescent lit cubicle whilst squeezing yourself into various ill fitting bras is not my definition of a good time.
London-based Galyna, who was born in the Ukraine, loved her career in private banking but witnessing the success of female entrepreneurs around her made her want to set up her own business
The entrepreneur wanted her range of lingerie to strike the right balance between comfort, sexiness and affordability
'And I wanted to create something which would let women have that experience of receiving something delicate and beautiful in luxurious packaging without the eye-watering price-tag.'
Galyna decided she was going to offer something different by creating a subscription box, costing from £14.95 a month, rather than selling pieces separately,
'I think we have come to a point in history where women are more financially independent than ever before, and buy items like lingerie to treat themselves rather than solely for the purpose of seducing someone else.
'This financial independence has also come with time constraints, and having spoken to many of my friends who are in relationships, many admitted they hated going shopping for lingerie as this felt more like something to cross off a to do list rather than a fun experience.
Galyna wanted to create a way for men to buy lingerie for their partners without feeling intimidated or awkward, or simply getting it wrong by buying something uncomfortable and impractical
'Buying lingerie as a gift in the meantime, left men in a panicked frenzy over where to go and what to buy.
'We receive a lot of thank you emails from husbands and boyfriends who buy the subscription as a gift; they get to take the credit for having the perfect gift sent over to their significant others without having to go through the awkward process of pretending to know what women want.
'A subscription box therefore seemed like the perfect solution: lower prices whilst keeping quality very high because of our business model - no high rents for physical stores , no flashy runway shows or expensive Kardashian models, limited marketing spend due to recurring revenues.
Galyna always found shopping for underwear was a frustrating experiences and wanted to make it a treat rather than a chore for women
'There's a surprise feeling of a gift even when purchasing for yourself.
The subscription box asks you to reimagine yourself and take on a new persona with each new piece - maybe its something a little more risqué than you would usually go for, or a little more feminine.
'We encourage our customers to see themselves in a light they may have not seen themselves in before. I believe women are multifaceted creatures, but we tend to forget this. For example if you're a mother, it's easy to forget that a part of you is also a flirty and sexual being, and that it's okay to explore those sides of yourself.'
Galyna wanted her designs to be beautiful and delicate while remaining super-comfortable.
'Our designs are therefore specially chosen for their wearability whilst also making the women feel beautiful and feminine, and more than a little sexy,' she said.
'I grew tired of the notion that we have to choose between comfort and style - why not have your cake and eat it too?
'The initial idea came after we produced a couple of bralette designs and after a while I just couldn't wear any of my wired sets - it was like a whole new world of comfort had opened itself up to me and I decided I never wanted to go back.
'There are several scientific studies that have indicated that metal underwires can contribute to the development of breast cancer in women.
'We all know that all too familiar moment when you get home and the first thing you want to do is throw off your bra, it just seemed ridiculous that in 2018 women are still expected to put themselves at risk and live in discomfort.
'Through innovations like our wireless push up bras, we have become niche 'in the know' brand, and have grown our following to include celebrities and pop-stars.'
However, Galyna admits it hasn't all been plain sailing and there has been a few hiccups along the way.
Empress Mimi was established just a few years ago, but the demand for Galyna's designs has been so high that her brand is set to make £1.1M by the end of 2018
'Turning the idea into a real product has been a game of patience: I can be quite hard on myself in terms of trying to get everything right straight away but running this business has taught me that it's a long game of reiteration,' she explained.
'We are constantly on the lookout for new manufacturing partners, even our box design has undergone more changes than I'm willing to admit.
'This is a journey as a designer and business owner you just have to learn to love and accept.
'Even what you would think are great moments can turn into stressful periods if you don't take a moment to check yourself; a couple of months ago we had an unexpected spike in sales and completely sold out.
A model poses in the Empress Mimi Queen of Hearts set. Galyna was determined to make sure all the bras were non-wired for extra comfort
'Rather than celebrating I remember that the two weeks I had to wait for new stock to arrive being some of the most stressful I had experienced - I was terrified that I was disappointing our customers and that somehow this would spell the end for the company.
Sharing her tips for other entrepeneurs, Galyna advises getting started while you're still in full-time employment.
'You do not want to be running a company from a place of fear that if things do not take off in x amount of time, you won't be able to pay your rent.
'Things can take time, so patience is key. In the end, remember you are building something for your future self; if you can't imagine working for someone else five years down the line then the investment has to come now.'


text:
Серија Азбука нашег живота се емитује на каналу Суперстар ТВ од 3. децембра 2021. и Прва ТВ од 10. јануара 2022. Прва сезона је емитована од 3. децембра 2021. до фебруара 2022. и има 10 епизода.
У плану је и друга сезона серије.

Преглед

Епизоде

1. сезона (2021)

Епизоде

2. сезона (2023)

Напомена

Спољашње везе

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Xplode Magazine
IN-DEPTH: Hiring and firing – does it work?
How a 7-1 defeat helped transform QPR's season
IN-DEPTH: What has gone wrong at Bolton?
Is This Year Our Year?
Can anyone stop Man City?
Owen Povah
Manchester City are having the best start to a premier league season ever. They've won all games but one in the league. Pep Guardiola's side have been ripping the whole league to shreds with their high-intensity style of play. They're now sat at the top of the table with 34 points. No other team in the top 6 seem to be near their level; but can anybody catch them and who would that be?
Manchester United seem the most likely candidate to catch City. They are second at the minute and have the most clean sheets, despite also scoring the second most goals. They were in a good position after they clinched a 1-0 win against Spurs, but after losing to Chelsea and having already failing to beat Liverpool, where City managed to beat both. A big gap has been left between them and the top, but they are still the closest.
Tottenham came into the season expecting big things after nearly winning the league twice in a row, but bottling it both times. Beating Real Madrid 3-1 in the champions league was a big show of power, they smashed Liverpool 4-1, they were looking very strong. That was until the North London derby where they were dominated by Arsenal and lost 2-0. That will of been a massive blow to Spurs' confidence and their hopes of the title.
The defending champions Chelsea got off to a terrible start this year after a 3-2 loss to Burnley. Since then they have picked up a bit of momentum winning several games against smaller teams and beating United. But they did still lose to City and got smashed by Roma 3-0 in Europe, they don't seem as strong as last season. However, they are still third in the table and could pose a threat to City.
This year Liverpool were hoping for a similar start to last season, but unfortunately for them, that hasn't come. Failing to beat several smaller teams in the league they have dropped a lot of points and getting smashed by City and Spurs was a big blow to their confidence. They are vulnerable at the back but are scoring for fun at the other end. Liverpool are picking up some momentum but their defensive frailties will let them down in the title race.
Arsenal decided to keep Arsene Wenger as their manager despite the fans "Wenger Out" campaign. So far Arsenal have played good football but after the questionable decision to drop their new £60 million Lacazette, against both Liverpool and City. Games they lost. However, after winning the North London derby this could be a turning point in their season, and their title charge.
Overall City are not completely safe at the top. They have struggled in the busy winter months in other seasons, however, if they carry on playing the way they have little could stand in their way. Chelsea and United prove the most threatening but if any of the other top 6 get into a huge swing of form you never know what could happen. Burnley are sitting only 4 points behind 2nd at the minute and however unlikely that would be, memories of Leicester come flooding back.
Related Topics:arsenal, arsene wenger, Chelsea, Football, jose mourinho, jurgen klopp, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, mauricio pochettino, Pep Guardiola, premier league, tottenham
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Home Celebrities 7 Lesser-known facts About WWE star Drew McIntyre
7 Lesser-known facts About WWE star Drew McIntyre
Posted By: adminon: January 07, 2023 In: Celebrities
While Drew McIntyre has been in the limelight for his WWE career, we bet there are a number of things you don't know about him. Scroll on for a list of facts About WWE star Drew McIntyre.
Drew McIntyre has been one of the biggest WWE stars, in fact, the man has been in the headlines for being part of the first Smackdown of 2023. The wrestling champion's WWE has had a number of ups and downs and even if you have been following the man for a few years we bet there are a number of interesting facts you still don't know about him. With that in mind, we have curated the perfect curation of lesser-known facts about the beloved Scottish wrestler.
1. Drew McIntyre's real name is Andrew McLean Galloway IV
While the wrestling star has been popular for his ring name Drew McIntyre, his real name is Andrew McLean Galloway IV. He was born on 6 June 1985 in Scotland and is currently signed to WWE.
2. He began his WWE journey back in 2007
One of the biggest names in WWE today, Drew McIntyre first joined WWE in 2007 during the Florida Championship Wrestling which was followed by the more popular collaboration with WWE in 2009. The man was unrecognizable back in 2007.
3. He has been called 'The Chosen One' by Vince McMahon
Vince McMahon has publicly called Drew, 'The Chosen One.' It was during his first run in WWE. In fact, Vince was pretty sure from the beginning that he trusted in Drew McIntyre's potential and even said that he reminded him of himself when he was starting out.
4. Drew has a master's degree in Criminology
Despite being pretty sure about wrestling as his career in his early years, Drew made sure he has a backup to rely on. He credits his parents for that. Today, he holds a master's degree in Criminology from Glasgow Caledonian University.
5. Drew has been married more than once.
Back in 2009, Drew McIntyre married wrestler Taryn Terrell better known by her professional name Tiffany. However, the couple ended up getting a divorce in 2011. In December 2016, he got married to Kaitlyn Frohnapfel used to be a fitness trainer back then. It is rumored the two got engaged in Las Vegas. They currently live in Nashville, Tennessee, and have also lived in Tampa, Florida.
6. His signature finisher was actually an accident
If you have been following Drew McIntyre from the beginning, you'd know that Claymore wasn't always his finishing move. Turns out, it was actually an accident. The man was actually going for a big boot which ended up discovering his signature finisher.
7. Drew McIntyre loves football
Not only Drew loves football but he is one of the biggest supporters of the Scottish football club Rangers.
About Drew McIntyre
One of the most renowned Scottish professional wrestlers, as of now Drew McIntyre is signed to WWE and performs under the SmackDown brand. The wrestling sensation has been a two-time WWE Champion. Apart from that he has been a WWE Intercontinental Champion, NXT Champion, and has been WWE (Raw) Tag Team Champion twice among several other accolades in the world of wrestling.
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==================================================================================================
HostNumericSensorHealthState
==================================================================================================

.. describe:: HostNumericSensorHealthState

    Health state of the numeric sensor as reported by the sensor probes.

    .. py:data:: HostNumericSensorHealthState.green

        The sensor is operating under normal conditions

    .. py:data:: HostNumericSensorHealthState.red

        The sensor is operating under critical or fatal conditions. This may directly affect the functioning of both the sensor and related components.

    .. py:data:: HostNumericSensorHealthState.unknown

        The implementation cannot report on the current health state of the physical element

    .. py:data:: HostNumericSensorHealthState.yellow

        The sensor is operating under conditions that are non-critical.


Our client is a respected brand in global Telecommunications and lead the way in mobility solutions. They are driving multiple projects across Australia and require an experienced Field Operations Manager to manage a multi-faceted team and own the Telecom Implementation process when they deliver Rollout projects.
As the Regional Field State Manager you will be accountable for executing operational delivery for Field Operations. Field Operations consists of non-centralised activities, primarily maintenance & upgrades and includes the following functions; Telecom, i.e. Fixed & Mobile, and non-Telecom functions, preventive maintenance delivery of Telecommunications services for mobile Operators.
Forecasting and Management of Resource and Capability.
Controlling, reporting and optimising services delivery in alignment with relevant Project Management processes e.g. time management, cost management, scope management.
If this is something that is of interest to you and would like to apply, please send your CV the email below.


Mr. Trent's Classroom: SMILE! Tomorrow is Picture Day!
SMILE! Tomorrow is Picture Day!
Don't forget: Tomorrow is picture day. It is also an "out-of-uniform" day for students.
It is Less Than a Week Until the Musical!
Hello, Week of October 3rd!


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Macau News > Macau News
Xi urges Macau government officials to demonstrate sense of responsibility
Chinese President Xi Jinping urged principal officials of the fifth-term government of the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR), who were sworn in Friday, to demonstrate a sense of mission.
China allows no external forces to interfere with Hong Kong, Macao affairs
President Xi Jinping said on Friday that China will not allow any external forces to interfere with Hong Kong and Macao affairs.
Xi praises Macau's historic achievements since return to motherland
President Xi Jinping commended the historic achievements made by Macau in economic and social development.
Xi says Macau is 'a small table is putting on big show'
President Xi Jinping says Macau has made "proud achievements" since its return to the motherland 20 years ago.
President Xi visits China-PSCs commercial, trade service platform complex
Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday acknowledged the progress made by Macau since its return to China in advancing the building of a service platform for China-Portuguese-speaking Countries commercial and trade cooperation.
Xi says nation is proud of Macau's achievements, progress
President Xi Jinping said upon arrival that the central government and the Chinese people are proud of the achievements and progress of Macau since its return to the motherland 20 years ago.
Xi praises Chui for 10 years of diligent work
President Xi Jinping pointed out that the central government fully acknowledges Chui's diligent work during his 10 years as the chief executive.
President Xi arrives in Macau and met outgoing Chief Executive Chui Sai On
China's President Xi Jinping arrived in Macau today to attend a gathering marking the 20th anniversary of Macau's return to China and the inauguration of the Macau Special Administrative Region's fifth-term government.
Xi to arrive for 3-day working visit this afternoon
President Xi Jinping will arrive in Macau Wednesday afternoon to officiate at celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Macau's return to the motherland.
CAM says air passengers set to grow 17% this year
The local airport's passenger volume is expected to reach 9.5 to 9.6 million this year, a 17% increase from last year.
Macau's 20 Michelin star restaurants
Macau now has two dozen Michelin-starred restaurants, including three top-rated establishments, since Tuesday.
Premium Taiwanese airline to launch Macau route next month
Several airlines have long been running the Taiwan-Macau route, and Taiwan-based Starlux Airlines is launching one next month.
Lawmakers pass 2020 budget bill
The Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the government's 2020 budget bill.
LRT to close from Wednesday afternoon to Friday due to 'special security measures'
The Light Rapid Transit system will be suspended from 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, before resuming on Saturday.
Macau-Hong Kong airport bus service starts
A bus service between the Macau checkpoint of the Hong-Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and Hong Kong's international airport came into service on Monday.
Macao's moon, planetary lab to boost China's deep space exploration
It was announced on Sunday that Macao's first space exploration satellite was named Macao Science 1.
Xi to arrive on Wednesday for 3-day visit
President Xi Jinping will visit Macau from Wednesday to Friday.
Macau-HK ferry sailings reduced to every 30 minutes
Ferry sailings between Hong Kong and Macau will be reduced to just once every 30 minutes from today until Saturday.
LRT boasts 68,800 passengers in 1st 3 days
The Taipa section of the Light Rail Transit had 68,800 passengers in the first three days of its operation.
Macao varsity looks to lead higher education in western PRD
The University of Macau is determined to take the lead in higher education and research in the western Pearl River Delta.


When the defunct Ottoman Empire's Middle-Eastern territory was divided by Britain and France in the early 1920s as League of Nations Mandates, Britain received Iraq. Ostensibly, the French and British were to assist the people living within their respective mandates in nation-building. In reality, these mandates amounted to little more than watered downed colonialism with these European powers determining their governments and borders. Indeed, the myth that Iraq's western border with Jordan cuts deeply eastward because Winston Churchill sneezed while drawing the map of Iraq at the 1921 Cairo Conference persists to this day. This paper argues that Britain's role in creating Iraq has been simplified and exaggerated, especially since the beginning of the Iraq War in 2003. Though Britain certainly played a large role in its creation and further sought to benefit from a neocolonial relationship with Iraq, to credit (or to blame) Britain solely for its existence is to ignore external factors that curtailed Britain's decision making. These external factors range from British dealings with Middle-Eastern elites to the need to appease the interests of other Western powers in the area, such as France, Russia and the United States. This is demonstrated by examining a series of primary sources, including: correspondences between British officials and Middle-Eastern leaders; as well as proposed treaties and actual treaties between Britain and other Western states.
. The Complications of State-Building: Reevaluating the Role of Britain in the Creation of Iraq. Utah Historical Review, [S.l.], v. 4, p. 53–75, july 2014. ISSN 2374-1570. Available at: <http://epubs.utah.edu/index.php/historia/article/view/1170>. Date accessed: 22 apr. 2019.


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CYBERGUN announces the conclusion of an exclusive global license agreement with Turkish company CANIK, a leading arms manufacturer.
This agreement covers the design, production and distribution of 4.5mm and 6mm calibers for the civilian and military markets. Both partners appeared together at SHOTSHOW in Las Vegas to set out the broad lines of their collaboration.
In the military segment, in which CANIK has sold several million firearms and in which its commercial strength is recognized worldwide, the company has already planned to bolster its catalog of products and sell them as soon as they become available.
The first product launched under this new partnership will be a replica of the CANIK TP9 Elite with the first units scheduled to be available in summer 2020.
Hugo Brugiere, Chairman and CEO of CYBERGUN, said: "CYBERGUN once again demonstrates its capacity to work with the world's largest manufacturers to develop their offerings in the civilian and military markets. We are extremely proud of this recognition and look forward to presenting the new products from this partnership to our customers."
Utku Aral, CEO of CANIK, added: "I am delighted to sign this agreement with CYBERGUN which covers both the civilian and military sectors. Having considered the opportunities available, we found that CYBERGUN was the partner best able to represent our brand and promote our interests."


ESNAF are handmade magnetic wooden toys designed and made by the architecture studio Archabits. The embedded magnets allow each toy to be assembled in multiple ways which is not only a great game but also an intellectual challenge for the little ones.
The Brementown Musicians is a themed collection recreating the four animals of the famous fairy tale - Rooster, Cat, Dog and Donkey.


Today, lawyers for Nebraska landowners submitted written arguments stating that a 2012 legislative bill unconstitutionally authorizes a foreign pipeline company, TransCanada, to seize their land through eminent domain. Although Congress has attempted to push the Keystone XL Pipeline project through, it has since been halted by a presidential veto, as well as the lawsuits filed by Nebraska landowners—who won temporary injunctions halting eminent domain proceedings in February of this year.
In Nebraska, four members of the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a landowner group, who sought to strike down this law. However, three Justices refused to vote. Since state law requires at least five out of the seven Justices to concur in order to quash a legislative bill, no definitive decision was made. Even so, this activity gave rise to another round of landowner cases in Nebraska. Attorneys Dave Domina and Brian Jorde wrote the briefs that were submitted to Judge Mark D. Kozisek this week.
The case is set to be heard in court on October 19, 2015 in O'Neill, Nebraska. Domina and Jorde also handled the case previously filed by the landowners, Thompson v Heinemann, 289 Neb 798 (2015), in which they argued that LB 1161 violates Nebraska State Constitutional provisions.
TransCanada and the Nebraska Attorney General have 30 days to respond to the landowners. "Our positions are very strong. We look forward to the October 19 arguments and have a good sense for the legal positions of our Nebraska landowner clients," explains Dave Domina of Domina Law Group pc llo.


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Home Netflix Does 'Lennay Kekua' Really Exist? Is She Dead or Alive?
Does 'Lennay Kekua' Really Exist? Is She Dead or Alive?
Stephan Gibbs
Is Lennay Kekua a Real Person? Is She Dead? – Netflix's two-part documentary, "The Girlfriend Who Didn't Exist," recounts one of the most bizarre stories in the annals of collegiate football. Manti Te'o, a linebacker for Notre Dame, became a Heisman Trophy contender during the Fighting Irish's unbeaten regular season in 2012, enthralling sports fans and the general public.
Te'o's achievement was set against the backdrop of personal tragedy; he dedicated his season to his grandmother and lover, who had both passed away independently on the same day that September. However, it was revealed in January of the following year that his girlfriend had never existed, placing Manti at the centre of one of the most significant sporting scandals in American history at the time.
The subject of the Netflix documentary is a young woman by the name of Lennay Kekua. Everybody knew her as Manti Te'o's girlfriend. Everything that was learned about her came to light after she passed away, and even then, her life still seemed to revolve around being Manti's girlfriend. Manti rose to prominence due to her terrible death as someone everyone could relate to and support. But when the startling reality about their relationship was revealed, everything changed. The Netflix documentary delves further into this dispute, uncovering the causes behind Lennay's life and demise. Here's what you need to know if you're wondering who she was and what happened to her.
Recommended: What Happened With Manti Te'o and Where Is He Now?
Does Lennay Kekua Exist in Real Life?
Lennay Kekua is fictitious; she is not real. She was a fictitious persona. Naya Tuiasosopo was developed for online use. Naya had been attempting to determine her own sexual identity at the time, which inspired her to develop the Lennay profile. She used it to communicate with individuals, but would stop when the subject of meeting in person came up.
She eventually met Manti Te'o, with whom she had a closer friendship than anyone she had met online. After some time, Naya concluded that the relationship should be terminated. She attempted to cover it up by claiming an accident and then cancer. She believed this would end the Manti and Lennay situation, but tensions rose as Manti's ascent to football stardom in the face of a horrific tragedy turned into a media darling. No one stopped to check that there was no obituary, no official confirmation of Lennay's death, her accident, or even her life. At the same time, everyone sympathised with Manti and related various accounts of his relationship with Lennay as well as the timing of her death.
Later, it was discovered that Diane O'Meara, who was entirely unaware that she had become the face of Manti's deceased girlfriend, was the subject of the photographs Naya had used in Lennay's profile to catfish Manti.
What Happened to Lennay Kekua? Is She Dead?
Lennay Kekua passed away in September 2012, long before the public learned the true extent of catfishing. A few months earlier, Manti had learned that Lennay had been involved in a deadly auto accident. It was discovered that she had leukaemia when she was recovering from it, necessitating a bone marrow transplant.
Manti talked to her on the phone every night throughout this time, drifting off to the sound of her breathing and occasionally hearing her respond to his voice. She was reportedly receiving treatment at the St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton, California. She had cancer treatment there before moving on to St. Jude's. According to Manti, she was in St. Jude's and was transferred to another hospital.
She appeared to have a chance of surviving these consecutive tragedies, but things quickly turned for the worst, and she went at about the same time as Manti's grandmother. The inconsistencies in the manner the news was reported started to appear at this point. Lennay passed away less than a day after Manti's grandmother, according to some media reports, while other sources placed the two deaths at a distance of several days. Regardless, her funeral was held around a week after she passed away, and Manti did not go.
While Lennay's passing and Manti's great fortitude to carry on despite losing "the love of his life" became an inspirational story that was covered extensively in the media, Lennay called Manti to inform him that she wasn't actually dead and had been hiding. He was given a photo of her as evidence, which Manti demanded, and it just served to further his confusion. After some time had passed and he was unsure of what to make of it, he told his family about it.
At that point, his uncle, a lawyer, informed him that he had been catfished. Lennay Kekua's story came to an end when it was revealed later on Deadspin that she never existed; yet, it was only the beginning for Manti and Naya.
Must Read: Where is Manti Te's Fake Girlfriend Naya Tuiasosopo Now?
Is Lennay Kekua a Real Person
What Happened to Lennay Kekua
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Spiky TV's senior news writer is Stephan Gibbs. He is obsessed with movies, comic books, and television shows, and he spends much too much money on collectibles. A father of two daughters, a dog lover, a gym rat, a coffee connoisseur, and an all-around doughnut snob. You can follow his daily exploits on Twitter and Instagram.
Which Books is the Series 'Lockwood & Co.' Based on?


Polar is committed to customer satisfaction. Review the User Manual for more information. You can find additional support information at polar.com/us-en/FT7, by email at [email protected], and by phone at 1-800-227-1314.
The Polar FT7 is a rugged watch and data-tracking heart rate monitor, combined in one attractive package. An innovative EnergyPointer feature graphically displays real-time information during your workout, letting you know if you're burning fat or improving aerobic fitness. The FT7 comes complete with comfortable fabric transmitter and coded heart rate transmission, to avoid electronic cross-talk.
Energy Pointer: If you want to improve your fitness or burn fat, EnergyPointer is an easy-to-use feature that visually shows the main effect of your training, so you can focus on what you want to achieve.
OwnCal: OwnCal is one of the most accurate calorie counters on the market. It calculates the number of calories expended during a training session based on your weight, height, age, gender, individual maximum heart rate (HRmax), and how hard you're training.
Training Load: The web-based Training Load helps you strike a balance between rest and training, showing your daily cumulative training load, and advising when rest days are needed and when it's best to train harder in order to maintai performance improvement.
Therm - a - Rest Z Lite - Colchón, tamaño Regular Amazon.es Price: 46.90€ (as of 25/01/2017 15:27 PST- Details)	& FREE Shipping.


Musicians & Bands Themed Slots - Play in Demo or for Real!
If you love music and you love slots games, then you are in luck! Music-themed slots have been popular for a while, but recently they have really come into their own. There are now a huge number of slots games that are themed around everything from famous musicians to popular bands to karaoke, and there is something to get your toes tapping every step of the way. Click here to read more.
Part of the appeal of music-themed slots is that there are so many genres to choose from. Whether you love the toe-tapping bebop sounds of Buddy Holly, the smooth sounds of Elvis or the raucous rock created by Guns n Roses, there's something to suit every style.
These are just some of the genres, but there are also jazz-themed games, rap, hip-hop, disco and pop smash hits that deliver a reel spinning sensation along with a great beat. The way developers have been able to incorporate music from some of the world's greats is also exceptional, and this genre is one that will remain perennially popular, as we all love the tapping sounds and singing along to our favourite tunes!
The online arena has made music-themed slots even better than ever, as players are not surrounded by other machines in a noisy casino. This means they can enjoy the soundtracks that company a game to the full and can turn up the volume as loud as they desire. When playing in a land-based casino, much of the effect of game's music is lost, as there are so many other noises coming from the floor. This could be why the online sector features far more musical-themed games than the land-based, and why they are such a big hit.
Musical-themed online slots are a great choice for music lovers, but they are also an excellent chance for game developers to use their creativity and have some fun. While some slots like Jimi Hendrix and Michael Jackson King of Pop focus on the musicians themselves, there are creative games like Shamrock n Roll and Piped that create their own characters and storylines based on the beats.
If, however, you think musical-themed slots are all about heavy beats and rock 'n' roll, you might be mistaken. For those who love classical music there are also games like Vivaldi's Seasons that draw inspiration from Vivaldi's Four Seasons, and several country-themed games that offer something a little different.
Music is a great mood booster, and it also helps set the tone of a game. The leading online slots developers have thus used it to great effect in themed games, and when a player wins they are often treated to a burst of a smash hit or one of the musician's or band's more popular songs.
There really is nothing better to put you in a good mood than great music, and themed slots that use tunes to their full effect will do exactly that.
Music-themed slots can also appeal to a huge audience, as just about everyone loves music and just about everyone has a favourite genre, band or musician.
From the more classical themed options, such as Lady in Red to the hip, hot and happening games that feature rockers like Motorhead, there is something to suit all styles.
For new slots players the thought of being able to stick with something familiar is also comforting, and a themed game that plays music that you love is a great starting point. For those with more experience, playing to a backing track of tunes that you love is a real treat, and if the game boasts symbols of favourite musicians, even better!
Music really does offer developers so many exciting angles to explore, and the potential to use the imagination is endless. From giant mirror balls and neon colours from the disco era to luxury yachts and bling from the Hip Hop era, there's a theme to suit every style.
There is also the option to create games for karaoke fans, those who love concerts or dancing or those who simply love seeing their idols on stage. Music is also theme that you'd associate with happiness and bright colours, and we've yet to see a dull music-themed slots game online!
If you are not sure what type of slots game suits you or simply want to have some fun, the music-themed games are an excellent option. While you spin the reels you'll be serenaded, and whether it's a classic reel or a video slot, you can bet that the symbols will impress too.
As music creates a mood, it can also be used to great effect in building suspense, especially in bonus games, and often the reels speed up as the tempo increases too. Payouts may also be signalled by a fanfare of sound, and a win can easily turn into a celebration.
Whatever music you love listening to, you can be almost certain that there is slots game that has been created to match it. From Jazz on Club to Mad Orchestra and everything in between, there's a slot that will provide the aural pleasure you're looking for - all while offering you the chance to win big!


Playing basketball not only keeps you healthy and fit but also keeps many health-related problems at bay. Let's know, health benefits can be availed by playing basketball.
Playing basketball: Health benefits of playing basketball.
Playing basketball is beneficial for the health of the heart. It improves health because you keep moving while playing basketball, which increases your heart rate. Moreover, it also helps in building endurance.
Playing basketball: Playing basketball helps to burn calories.
If you want to lose some weight then basketball is beneficial for you. Running and jumping while playing basketball deliver the benefits like the aerobic workout. An average person 600 calories while playing basketball for one hour.
Physical movement in basketball helps in improving and building bone strength. Movements in this game help in forming new bone tissues and makes bone more stronger. If you play basketball regularly then bones and muscles become stronger.
Playing basketball helps in reducing stress. Moreover, it makes you feel more energetic and helps to stay focus to complete. When the depression is low, your immune system will get a boost as well.
You will get full body workout by playing basketball. This help in gaining lean muscles. Moreover, it also makes your legs and wrist flexors more strong.
Playing basketball delivers many health benefits. You must be aware of all the health benefits of playing basketball. You can also read this article in Hindi.


Fresh oysters don't have to be served raw. They can also be encased in a crispy batter to create a perfect canapé, satisfying snack or unexpected element of a main course. The crunch from the batter compliments the moist, salty oyster meat, making deep fried oysters a must-try for any seafood-lover.
For instructions for opening or 'shucking' an oyster, have a look at our video.
The salty flavour of an oyster and crisp batter coating are beautifully complemented by the fresh citrus flavours of lemon found in Nathan Outlaw's citrus mayonnaise or the sweetness present in Chris Horridge's apricot purée. In contrast, a hot chilli dressing would also work well to bring out the inherent umami flavour of the oysters.


As Long Hollow continues to launch satellite campuses, the need for skilled supervision in audio and visual areas continues to increase. Starting in 2011, Tim has provided this much-needed leadership and expertise to make our satellite campus worship experiences the best they can be.
When he's not at Long Hollow, Tim is typically found fixing up a motorcycle or car. His favorite burger joint is Gabby's (in Nashville) and he prefers the music of classic crime. Proverbs 16:9 is always a good reminder to him that God is in control.


HER CONFESSION – BOOK #2 Gabriella Woods is adapting to Darion Milano's daring world… As Gabi tries to break down Darion's defenses and help him move on from his damaged past, she hopes he can offer her the love and security she desperately requires. Darion likes that Gabi is pushing her boundaries, but he has his own dilemmas… With his outrageous ex-wife in the picture, a constant threat, Gabi finds herself agreeing to Darion's open-minded adventurous fantasies. The bond they share appears stronger than ever. Until her confession changes everything. Is Darion pushing Gabi to her limits—and further away from him? Or is Gabi in too deep to give Darion up, regardless of her identity that he's slowly stripping away?
"Not having noticed the warning signs, Anna now saw that she had become embalmed in her carefully constructed life."
A Flash of Red is a thriller about the perils that some marriages face, the difficulty of letting go of the past, and the harsh reality of mental illnesses. As a professor of Psychology, Anna Kline has devoted her life to teaching about mental illnesses and disorders. To her students, her life seems picture-perfect. However, behind the scenes she's harboring some difficult secrets--about her past, about her family, and, most of all, about her marriage.
When one of her students, Bard, learns about some of the realities she's harboring, their lives become intertwined. As the plot progresses, Anna and Bard must come to terms with their realities and with the notion that life isn't always what it seems.
I thought the psychological aspects of this novel were really well-written. I found myself constantly questioning whether or not I could trust each character. The depth of the relationships was also noteworthy. I liked that Stephens focused on the idea that marriage isn't always perfect. The behind-the-scenes look at a marriage in the midst of destruction was deep and thought-provoking. I liked the internal glimpse at both parties in a relationship about to detonate.
The tension was slowly built in the novel, which simmered over the course of the beginning of the story. At first, I was anxious for the pace to pick up; however, once it did, I realized how the slow simmer actually enhanced the events of the story and made the payoff greater.
The only thing I disliked was the ending simply because I could not agree with how it all turned out. However, everyone has their own opinion, and I can relish the fact that the ending did make me think and feel. This is the true mark of a well-crafted novel, regardless of whether or not you morally agree with what happened.
This is an excellent debut novel, and I look forward to reading more works by the very talented Sarah K. Stephens.


I've recently become a totally faithful Christian. I want to tell my friends and family about how great God is. I even want to tell strangers. But a lot of them just don't believe me. How can I convince them that God is the one?
It's great to hear that you've recently become a Christian, I join with the angels in heaven in partying!
Telling people about Jesus is a big topic. I only have a few lines so I'll give you some basic pointers.
When you first become a Christian, you want everyone you know the great news that you've just embraced and their unbelief must seem quite crazy. Don't they know what they're missing? But the thing is, no they don't. And until recently, neither did you! So firstly, remember where you've come from. I'm guessing it took a while before you became a Christian - it usually does. So don't lose heart, these things take their time.
The next thing is, I'm guessing that no one "convinced" you to be a Christian. Sure there may have been some discussions with people that helped to show where you needed to think some more, or showed where you believed things that were wrong, but it is extremely rare for someone to be convinced that they need Jesus and to become a Christian in one sitting (though it does happen). You may like to share how God has worked in your life and why you follow Jesus and offer opportunities for them to find out more (would they like to meet up with you to read one of the gospels?). Again, this can take time.
You see becoming a Christian is a process where by a person sees and hears about God and what he has done for them. They need to reflect upon that, ask questions, look at the evidence. This takes time and most likely involve a number of Christians. For some of those Christians, their involvment may be as little as a friendly word at church that showed the non-christian that christians are normal people. Or it maybe that the Christian has had a profound impact over many years and many conversations on the non christian. The point is - it is a process and we may not know what part we will play in each individual.
Finally (and certainly not the least), you need to realise one important fact about convincing people about God. You can't do it!
Becoming a Christian is about entering into a right relationship with God. You can't convince people to enter into that relationship. That is God's responsibility. You role is to keep pointing people to God, it is God's role to call them to himself. If God is not calling them, then nothing you do will convince them otherwise (that doesn;t mean you don't do it, rather it means you spend a lot of time in prayer for them). God needs to actually work in the life of the people for them to become Christians. He did it in you and everyone else who becomes a Christian, and he uses people like you to foster the relationship on his behalf. The best way to "convince" people is to introduce them to Jesus (in the Bible) and let God do the convincing.
So pray for the people around you who aren't Christians, live the godly life God called you to live before them, make the most ofthe opportunities that come your way and trust that God will use you to bring others into his kingdom.